I see this all the time in my life. I wear makeup, curl my hair and pick out coordinating outfits to feel "pretty." I carry big books, take AP classes and study for my SAT so I feel "smart." And you know what? I'm pretty sick and tired of it.

We don't usually cut the fluff and really talk about what lies inside. When a college asks, "Who are you?" most of us will give generic answers. Many will talk about extracurricular activities and the things they like to do. Yet if we're honest with ourselves, are we really that simple?

I am an Indian-American. The hyphen represents the fulcrum balancing two rich cultures and societies, both of which equally constitute my identity. I should not, and will never, choose one side over the other.